Toronto, Canada, October 20, 2025 – TVO Media Education Group (TVO) is honoured to announce that The Thread with Nam Kiwanuka Season 3 has won a Radio Television Digital News Association (RTDNA) 2025 Central Region Award for Investigative Excellence in the Multiplatform category. This win positions The Thread to compete against winners from the Prairies, West and East regions at the 2025 RTDNA National Awards on November 1.
The RTDNA Canada Awards honour the best journalists, programs, platforms, stations and newsgathering organizations in audio, digital and video.
“These stories are personal and often happen to our neighbours in Ontario during some of their hardest times,” said Nam Kiwanuka, Host/Producer, The Thread with Nam Kiwanuka. “I am grateful for the trust that was shown to me, for every home that was opened to us, the coffees that were offered and for every conversation that was shared. My appreciation as well to RTDNA Canada for recognizing the Investigative Excellence that The Thread team delivered.”
The award specifically recognizes two standout episodes from Season 3:
Episode 1: The Housing Crisis
The episode follows Abra Shiner, a terminally ill woman facing eviction and a respected Dundas West community advocate until her passing in July 2025. The team explored Ontario’s housing crisis by featuring housing advocate Lorraine Lam, former encampment residents, and a senior shelter resident. The episode also highlighted Peterborough’s modular homes project as a practical solution for people experiencing homelessness.
Episode 3: International Students
The episode investigates the challenges faced by international students in Canada, including wage theft, housing insecurity, and isolation. It featured support from Naujawan Support Network, Khalsa Aid, and the SpacesShared housing program.
Congratulations to Nam Kiwanuka and the entire production team who worked diligently to bring these important stories to life.
“This recognition means so much to all of us on The Thread,” says Elizabeth St. Philip, Director of Program Development at TVO. “I’m so thankful to the people who trusted us with their stories, extremely proud of our team for their dedication, care and compassion, and grateful to the RTDNA for honouring the work that we do at TVO.”
Watch The Thread with Nam Kiwanuka via TVO.org, YouTube and TVO Today’s Smart TV app.
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ABOUT TVO MEDIA EDUCATION GROUP
TVO Media Education Group inspires learning that changes lives and enriches communities. Founded in 1970, we are a globally recognized digital learning organization that engages Ontarians of all ages with inclusive experiences and diverse perspectives. Through our brands TVO Today, TVO Learn, TVO ILC and TVOkids, we’re investing in the transformative potential of education for everyone. TVO is a registered charity funded in part by the Province of Ontario and supported by thousands of sponsors and donors. Visit TVO.me for more information.
Media Contact: Genevieve Grant, TVO| ggrant@tvo.org